Atrioventricular block after transcatheter closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defects.

Abstract

To look at the presentation, treatment and outcome of patients who developed atrioventricular block after transcatheter closure of a perimembranous ventricular septal defect (PMVSD) with the Amplatzer PMVSD device. Three tertiary referral centres for paediatric cardiology in two countries. All three patients presented within 10 days of the procedure. All three patients were treated with intravenous steroids. A permanent pacemaker was inserted in all patients but no pacemaker required activation after two months. Complete atrioventricular block occurring in the weeks after device occlusion of a PMVSD appears to resolve quickly. Continued involvement in multicentre device databases is required to monitor safety.